DURHAM, N.C. –— Duke Children’s Hospital & Health Center, a nationally ranked pediatric academic medical center, announced the launch of Duke Children’s Community Partners, an all-inclusive giving program to benefit patients and families who rely on Duke Children’s for hope and healing. Head coach Mike Krzyzewski will serve as Duke Children’s Community Partners honorary chairman.

Duke Children’s Community Partners officially kicks off 2014 fund-raising efforts for Duke Children’s, leading up to the 20th annual MIX 101.5 Radiothon for Duke Children’s on February 11-12, 2014. MIX 101.5 Radiothon is a lead example of community-wide fund-raising for Duke Children’s.

“Duke Children’s Community Partners Program offers children, families and organizations the opportunity to utilize their creativity, skills and talents through fund-raising to provide immediate support for patients and families at Duke Children’s,” said Krzyzewski.

Through Duke Children’s Community Partners Program, individuals and organizations are empowered to develop events and initiatives that meet their distinct interests and goals to fund-raise for MIX 101.5 Radiothon and for Duke Children’s year-round. Community Partners events should complement Duke Children’s mission to make life better for children.

“Duke Children’s is engaging individuals and organizations in unprecedented ways to take ownership of fund-raising efforts that build on their unique strengths,” Krzyzewski said. “Community Partners offers endless possibilities and opportunities for communities to unite together in support of a loved one, neighbor, colleague or friend, both today and for future generations.”

Top level Community Partners will be invited to Coach Krzyzewski’s annual Coach K Closed Practice Session for Duke Children’s. To learn more about Duke Children’s Community Partners Program, visit www.dukechildrens.org.

Coach Krzyzewski will transfer his role from serving as the honorary chairman of the Duke Children’s Holiday and All-Occasion Card Program to the new Duke Children’s Community Partners Program. Duke Children's Card Program raised more than $1,500,000 in its 32 years to support research, education and care.

“Duke Children’s Card Program legacy of children helping children will expand through Community Partners to engage a greater population of advocates and compassionate donors in support of Duke Children’s,” said Coach Krzyzewski.Duke Children's Holiday and All-Occasion cards are available year-round on Duke Children’s Card website, www.dukechildrenscards.org.

About Duke Children’s Hospital & Health CenterDuke Children’s Hospital & Health Center, located in Durham, N.C., is nationally ranked among the best in pediatric health care programs. Caring for children is our number one priority, from routine check-ups and immunizations to the treatment of life-threatening injuries and illnesses. At Duke Children’s, we provide hope and the most advanced health care available. We offer innovative procedures including stem cell and bone marrow transplants as well as a variety of support services for our patients and their families. For more information please visit www.dukechildrens.org.